The Los Angeles Dodgers have been represented by a rookie in the Home Run Derby three consecutive years, and are poised to extend that streak in 2017. While formal invitations have not yet been sent out, Cody Bellinger presumably will receive one.
Bellinger has been a spark for the Dodgers since making his MLB debut on April 25. The club was 9-11 at the time, and enter play Wednesday with a 52-27 record that’s good for best in the National League.
Despite spotting his teammates nearly a full month, Bellinger leads the Dodgers with 24 home runs and 56 RBI. He’s expressed a willingness to participate in the Home Run Derby should an invite be extended.
In a recent interview with David Vassegh of AM 570 L.A. Sports Radio, Corey Seager said he would encourage Bellinger to take part in the Derby:
“I would tell him it was a great time. And if he has somebody special who can throw him BP, it makes it even more fun. Having my dad made the situation and atmosphere that much more fun. Don’t worry about the “curse” of it. It’s exciting, it was a really special time for me and my dad. I would for sure tell him to go do it if he wanted to.”
Seager participated in the Home Run Derby last year and drew a tough matchup in Mark Trumbo, who led the Majors in homers at the time. Seager hit 15 home runs but was eliminated in the first round.
Seager had pitches thrown to him by his father, and Bellinger has already said he would ask his father, Clay, a former Major Leaguer, to throw to him.
Like with Seager, Dodgers manager Dave Roberts said he would support Bellinger if he elected to participate in the Home Run Derby. Roberts has dismissed the notion, or theory, it can significantly impact a player’s swing.
